Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that combines the crispy texture of Rice Krispies with the creamy flavor of banana pudding. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home, these treats are easy to make and sure to please everyone. With every bite, you’ll experience a burst of banana flavor, making them an unforgettable addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen with this fun and simple treat.
• Versatile: You can customize these treats by adding your favorite toppings like crushed Nilla Wafers or even chocolate chips.
• No Baking Required: Enjoy the satisfaction of making a delicious dessert without turning on the oven.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe makes 12 servings, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start crafting your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it even more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Microwave-safe bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9 x 13 inch baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Microwave-safe bowl: Essential for melting marshmallows quickly and evenly.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for mixing ingredients thoroughly without scratching bowls or pans.
• 9 x 13 inch baking pan: Perfect size to create a thick layer of treats that holds together well.

Ingredients

For these scrumptious Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats, you will need:

For the Base

• 3 tbsp Butter, Melted
• 1 (10 oz) bag vegan marshmallows
• 1 (3.4 oz) box Instant Banana Pudding Mix
• 6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal

Optional Topping

• Crushed Nilla Wafers

How to Make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

1. Spray a 9 x 13 inch pan with non-stick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

1. Melt butter in a large microwave-safe bowl.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows

1. Pour the bag of vegan marshmallows into the bowl with melted butter.
2. Stir until combined.

Step 4: Microwave the Mixture

1. Place the bowl in the microwave for 45 seconds.
2. Remove from microwave and stir again.
3. Return to microwave and heat for another 45 seconds; remove and stir until smooth.

Step 5: Mix in Pudding

1. Pour instant banana pudding mix into the melted marshmallow mixture.
2. Stir until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine with Rice Krispies

1. Add Rice Krispies cereal into the mixture.
2. Stir gently until well combined.

Step 7: Form Your Treats

1. Distribute mixture evenly into prepared pan.
2. Press firmly to ensure treats hold together well.

Step 8: Add Optional Toppings

1. If desired, sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top for added texture.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats! These no-bake delights promise to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat at home.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as a snack at home, these treats can be elevated with simple serving suggestions.

Add Fresh Bananas

• Slicing fresh bananas on top adds extra flavor and enhances the banana pudding theme, making each bite even more delicious.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce can provide a sweet contrast to the banana flavor, adding a rich touch to your treats.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Adding dollops of whipped cream on the side creates a creamy complement to the crispy texture of the treats.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Serving these treats alongside a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream makes for an indulgent dessert experience perfect for warm days.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkling crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans on top adds crunch and an inviting visual appeal, while also introducing a nutty flavor.

Present in Individual Portions

• Cutting the treats into small squares and placing them in cupcake liners can make for easy serving and fun presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Perfecting Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats involves attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips that will help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh marshmallows and high-quality pudding mix. This ensures that your treats are flavorful and enjoyable.

• Don’t Overheat Marshmallows: Be careful not to overheat the marshmallows when melting them. Stop heating as soon as they become soft enough to stir smoothly.

• Press Firmly: When spreading the mixture into the pan, press it down firmly but gently. This helps create compact, cohesive bars that hold together well.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different toppings such as chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even sprinkles for added texture and flair.

• Store Properly: Keep these treats in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispy texture. Avoid refrigeration as it may make them soggy.

• Cut After Cooling: Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps maintain their shape and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

Pairing side dishes with Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider when planning your menu:

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad complements the sweetness of the treats while adding freshness. Use seasonal fruits for vibrant flavors.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy dish that contrasts nicely with the texture of the rice krispie treats.

3. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic chocolate chip cookies add another layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with banana flavors.

4. Mini Cheesecakes: These rich desserts can provide a creamy counterpoint to the lightness of rice krispie treats, making them a great pairing.

5. Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade offers a zesty acidity that balances out the sweetness of your dessert nicely.

6. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy bites introduce tropical flavors that echo the banana while providing delightful texture contrasts.

7. Rice Pudding: A creamy rice pudding can serve as a comforting side dish that echoes the rice component in your main treat but offers different flavors and textures.

8. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station with fruits and marshmallows for dipping; this interactive dessert option is both fun and delicious!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the non-stick spray: Failing to spray the pan can lead to sticking. Always use non-stick spray to make removal easier.
• Not melting marshmallows evenly: Overheating or underheating the marshmallows can affect texture. Heat in short intervals and stir well between each.
• Ignoring mixing time: Rushing through the mixing can leave clumps. Take your time to ensure everything is well combined for a smooth treat.
• Using stale Rice Krispies: Old cereal can ruin the crispiness of your treats. Always check that your Rice Krispies are fresh before using.
• Forgetting optional toppings: Omitting crushed Nilla Wafers can mean missing out on added flavor and texture. Consider adding them for extra crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep at room temperature for optimal texture, but refrigerate if your kitchen is warm.

Freezing Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Cut into squares before freezing for easy serving later.

Reheating Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 10-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats.

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of vegan?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows if you prefer. The process remains the same.

How do I make Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats gluten-free?

Use gluten-free Rice Krispies and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I customize the flavor of these treats?

Absolutely! You can add different flavored pudding mixes or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for variety.

How long do Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats last?

They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

Banana Pudding Rice Krispie Treats offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins for a personal touch!